Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Finally, an update

Yes, I am still alive. And yes, I am running!

A few updates on races since I started running again in late January.

The Lost Dutchman 8k Trail Race was my first race since injury on October 31, 2009. I was originally registered for the full marathon, but was only able to run the 8k on race day. In fact, the race was the farthest I had run since November.

Riding on this happy running wave, I decided to run the Charles Harris 10k two weeks later, since I was planning to run 6 miles anyway as a 'long' run. No real expectations. I really wanted to beat my one previous 10k from May 2009 (59:11) - SUCCESS by 7 seconds! I also was hoping to go sub-59 which would squeak me into the better corral at the Peachtree Road Race if I decide to run it this year. Close but no cigar.

I also ran the Twisted Ankle Half Marathon. This is another marathon I had registered for, but had to switch to the shorter distance. It was a very warm and humid day. The faster half marathoners were saved from the worst of the heat, but I assure you it was hot even just sitting in the grass drinking cold beers waiting for my friends to finish the full.

My #1 goal was to get to the top of Becky's Bluff (mile 4) within 60 minutes. I was at the top and out of the aid station in 49 minutes. I was feeling fantastic and on track for a 2:35 finish or better until I wiped out at mile 11ish - I know better than to check my watch while running down a steep rocky descent...

Very happy with my results! Especially since this is my first hard core race since my injury in November 2009 (with nearly 3 months off running). Just missed the age group award, but this time last year would have earned me 2nd AG so I'm still pleased considering the fast crowd and the tougher weather conditions.